For the first-time visitor to Berlin, one might be wondering what to do with the time available. If you decide to visit Berlin, East Side Gallery should definitely be your next travel destination. This place full of marvelous murals is not only the last remaining piece of the Wall but also freedom that art brings along with it. Come along and take a walking tour of this landmark and come to know Berlin even more through its street art.
What is the East Side Gallery?
The East Side Gallery is the longest remaining continuous section of the Berlin Wall and it is situate in the area known as Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg and borders the Spree River. Following the demolition of the BERLIN WALL in 1989, artists of the world were let loose to paint this symbol on the landscape thay was literally divided by the wall.
Some of the murals in this gallery are over 100 and the artists painting the murals hale from different of backgrounds and paint murals with intentions of making a statement of peace, freedom and other political statements. It also serves more than just art as an ode; it also shows the memories of the wall and the challenges of those who bore the brunt of having it between them and their loved ones.
Planning your visit
1. Location and How to Get There
It is in the area of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, Mühlenstraße, and visitors could easily use public transport to access it. Subway to ‘’Warschauer Straße” station indeed it is only a ten-minute walk away from the Spree river, with the gallery situated at its riverbank. However, one can take a bus or tram to the Ostbahnhof or Warschauer Straße stations instead.
2. Best Time to Visit
This particular gallery is also an around the clock facility, to that effect, you can visit at your own time. But if you want to avoid crowding and give the appropriate respect to the artwork, one can go there early morning or during weekdays. This will enable one to have a less interrupted experience.
3. Exploring the Gallery
When you are out there walking alongside the East Side Gallery, be sure to spend enough time observing the creativity of the artists and the messages passed through their art. Every artwork also has a story and different perspectives of historical narrative and experience of the Berlin Wall.
Do not leave your camera at home; they are many areas where the taking of photos is favorable. Therefore, talk a picture of your favorite murals and use the same to share your experience with the rest of the community.
4. Nearby Attractions
The East Side Gallery can be followed by other sites in Berlin. The Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain areas are famous for clubs, pubs, and various restaurants as well as both lie in the eastern part of the city center. You can also take a short walk to the Oberbaum Bridge, that connects both parts of Berlin, and is one of the most popular place to watch the Spree River.
Understanding the Symbolism
The Murals of East Side Gallery are of different themes and depict social and political viewpoints of the given period. Below are some artworks and their interpretations such that:
Mural Artist Meaning
The Fraternal Kiss Dmitry Vrubel A reference to one of the legendary passionate kiss between Brezhnev and Honecker as a token of the so called unity between the USSR and the GDR.
Solidify the Concept Toussaint L’Ouverture Another of the many recurring characters in Noir’s work which depicts the spirit of heroic fight against oppression and conformity.
Sinking Automobile Birgit Kinder Its can be interpreted as the reunification with East and West Germany with Car as travel.
Conclusion
Whenever one is in Berlin, it is recommended to visit the East Side Gallery since it consists of History, art, and inspiration. It gives a great chance to watch the true capabilities of art in the work of transforming the symbol of division into the symbol of togetherness.
Therefore, wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and explore the fantasy of freedom and endurance available in the East Side Gallery in Berlin. It is something which you have not seen before and for sure it is an event that you definitely would not like to miss.
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